New Wis. permit for 'fish stick' habitats ready

Associated Press

February 3, 2014 - 4:05 AM

MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has created a new general permit for building so-called fish stick habitats.

Fish stick habitats are fallen trees and branches anchored to the shore that provide shelter and feeding areas for a wide range of fish as well as nesting and sunning areas for birds, turtles and other animals above the water.

The new permit allows lake property owners to submerge groups of trees near their shorelines. The permit identifies the location, design and other standards and conditions the projects must meet.

Both the permit and a guide to building fish stick habitats are available on the DNR's website.